Blessed assurance
The mystery of Christ's presence in our lives
April 2, 2008
J.J. Hutcheson
I am with you always, even to the end of the ages.
We are reminded of these words often in times of hardship and grief: the Lord who guided His people into the Promised Land is the same Lord who promised His disciples that He would be with them always, and the same Lord who lives with His Church and world with constant care and commitment.
This assurance can seem measly in the turmoil of life; the promise that Christ is with us at every moment is easily interpreted as a simple platitude given to those who are having a hard time. Although the promise is meant for comfort, the importance placed upon this statement sometimes carries little more than a simple reassurance for those in need.
Another interpretation of this pledge can mean a guarantee of Christ’s continual material blessing to his people, which provides food, comfort and even riches to the faithful. However, as the history of Christians’ plight throughout the world teaches us, there is no guarantee of worldly blessings or comforts. In fact, being faithful to Christ usually doesn’t materially differentiate the Christian from humanity’s common fate, and perhaps leading to an even more distraught and terrifying life.
In this sense, the idea that Christ is with us seems empty. It lacks any real significance aside from flowery ideals for the despairing and lackluster promises to the faithful. Yet, in the midst of this empty promise lies one of the most genuine and beautiful mysteries of the faith.
In one sense, the promise of Christ’s continual presence is a personal reality. The holy presence of Christ, His continual transformation of our souls, and the common journey we share with Him are the revelation of Christ’s guarantee to never leave us. From the most jubilant celebrations, to the most desolate cells in Auschwitz, Christ’s presence resounds in our souls.
Not only do we live with and through Christ, but we live with and through the lives of the saints past, present and future who also share in Christ’s presence. Those who are bound by common faith in our Lord live through us, and we through them, in celebration of Christ’s resonating company.
Christian worship tells us that our souls long for this blessed union with Christ, but we know the reality of his presence is always with us. In this way, the petitions of the faithful for Christ’s mercy and grace are a reflection of our longing, constantly reminding us of our state without the presence of Christ. As some Christians say in worship, “Lord, I am not worthy to receive You, but only say the word and I shall be healed.” In turn, His answer to our petitions comes from Christ offering His true presence in the Eucharist and His continual presence in our lives.
In the promise of Christ’s presence in our lives, there is truly one of the most blessed and whole realities of the Christian faith. Unlike platitudes or material promises, the communion we share with Christ is a key to unveiling the true riches and mercies Christ offers the faithful and all creation.
Now you go...
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